Week 4 powerpoint
- 1. Communicating to Get The Job You Want: Four Key Learning Objectives
- 2. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Communicating to Get the Job You Want: Four Key Tools
- 3. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Upon successfully completing this chapter, you will be able to: •Describe the components of a resume. •List 10 key action words that can strengthen a resume. •Describe eight practical tips for writing your resume. •State 10 commonly asked interview questions and give possible personal responses. •Describe five practical tips for surviving a job interview. •Explain the purpose for writing a thank-you letter. •Write a resume, cover letter, and thank-you letter.
- 4. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Chapter Highlights Tool number 1—The resume Tool number 2—The cover letter Tool number 3—The interview Tool number 4—The thank you letter
- 5. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Tool Number 1—The Resume A good first impression is essential to getting your dream job. Your resume is often the first impression a prospective employer has of you. A resume is a factual document that outlines your professional and academic experiences. Make it count! The two most common are functional and chronological Components of a Resume Demographics Objective Education Employment Awards, certifications, licenses
- 6. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Demographics Demographics refers to your personal identification information At minimum, it should include your name, address, and telephone number Full–legal name Do not abbreviate; include professional designations Address Write out the whole name of the state Phone number Area code in parenthesis Electronic mail, optional Check for messages once a day if included
- 7. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Objective An objective is a statement of your goals or intentions It should be precise, focused, and brief Keep your objective statement to one or two sentences The purpose of the objective is to let prospective employers know what you are looking for in a job. Examples on next slide
- 8. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Objective Examples Good Examples To find a (nursing, medical assisting) position that allows me to work in a medical setting caring for sick children. To find a challenging and fast-paced position as a (nurse, therapist, medical assistant) in an acute care setting Bad Examples I want a job in the medical field. I am looking for a high paying job in the medical field in New York City.
- 9. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Education Experiences This section covers your educational experiences in a reverse chronological order Provide the full name of the school with no abbreviations, including the city and state A street address is not needed If you are a graduate, list the degree that you were awarded Include the date that you graduated If you are still a student, list the year that you enrolled, for example write “2004–present.” List only post-secondary (not high school graduation) Do not list continuing education courses
- 10. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Work Experiences This section of your resume lists your employment history List job title, company name, city and state, dates of employment List responsibilities in bullet format Bullets alert the reader to pay attention Maximum of 5 responsibilities Highlight Key responsibilites Do not list your salary, supervisor name, explain why left position Do not overstate your accomplishments
- 11. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Awards & Certifications The final component of a resume is the list of your awards, certifications, and licenses They should be pertinent to the job for which you are applying As a new graduate, it may be difficult to have a lengthy list. List only pertinent ones Include name of award/date obtained/certifying body Examples on next slide
- 12. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Awards/Certifications/Licenses Examples All health care employers like to see “Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation” certifications. You can become CPR certified through either the American Heart Association or American Red Cross. Generally, it is a 6- to 8-hour course. Even if it is not a job requirement, it shows that you took the initiative to complete the course. If you have just graduated and are pending licensure or certification results, indicate the month and year that you took the examination and the name of the licensure examination and accrediting agency. For example: “Pending results of Licensed Practical Nurse examination for State of Connecticut, June 2005.” Before being eligible to sit for a certification examination, you often are required to complete a certain number of clinical hours. In this case, communicate that by writing, “Plan to take (add the name) Certification Examination in June 2005. Completed 50 of the 100 hours of clinical experience required.”
- 13. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Creating your Resume Template: A template is an outline that allows you to enter key information and create a document Keep to one page; 2 is maximum Emphasize accomplishments No personal information (age, sex, marital status) Select best format to highlight your talents Two types: functional and chronological
- 14. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Chronological • Most commonly used • This format works best for people who have extensive work experience but have been out of school for a while or have a limited educational background • The chronological resume focuses on your progressive work experiences. 1. Work experiences: list most recent position and work backwards; describe your job experiences and responsibilities 2. Education 3. Awards/Licenses/Certifications
- 15. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc.
- 16. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Functional lists your skills or accomplishments in categories This resume is good for people with limited work experiences, new graduates, or people returning to the work force The focus of a functional resume is on the skills you have and not when or where you obtained these skills 1. Accomplishments: They can be broken into various categories, such as clinical skills, administrative skills, and laboratory skills; Dates or employment records are not assigned to the skill 2. Employment: List the most recent first and work backwards; List only the dates, job title, and name of the facility 3. Education 4. Awards/Licenses/Certifications
- 17. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc.
- 18. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. General Composing Tips Composing simply means to write Start by gathering all the necessary information Check your dates for accuracy Select your format (chronological or functional) If you are not using a template, select a word processing program Select an appropriate font and size. The font should be clear and easy to read Avoid elaborate or calligraphy style fonts
- 19. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. General Composing Tips When writing a resume, choose your words carefully Use action words Achieved Identified Applied Operated Conducted Organized Completed Oriented (new staff) Constructed Performed Developed Prepared Directed Processed Educated/taught Scheduled Handled Solved Generated Check, double-check, triple-check for errors State only the facts It is equally as bad to “leave out” information on a resume. For example, let's say that you were fired from Dr. Jones' office. Should you still list Dr. Jones under the section “work experience?” Yes, you should. State the dates you were employed. Be prepared to answer questions during the interview as to why you left the office. Use white or off-white good-quality paper (20-24 pound paper) Black ink
- 20. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Tool Number 2—Cover Letter A cover letter is a formal document that introduces your resume Catch the interest of the prospective employer Think of a cover letter as a marketing tool to sell yourself Keep in mind that this prospective employer has advertised for a position and has probably received many other resumes You need to communicate why your resume should float to the top of the pile A resume without a cover letter is unprofessional and indicates lack of follow-through. Components of a Cover Letter Components—demographics, three paragraphs, closing Demographics should match your resume demographics
- 21. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. The paragraphs & closing Introductory This paragraph should consist of three or four sentences Begin by stating how you found out about this position Your second sentence should indicate that you know something about the clinic or medical setting The third sentence should draw a conclusion that you meet the needs of the advertisement Body This should consist of one paragraph that communicates in a “nut shell” why your skills and background meet the needs of this particular job Concluding The purpose of this paragraph is to encourage the prospective employer to call you for an interview. You want to communicate enthusiasm for obtaining an interview and excitement about the position. Type an appropriate closing, such as “Sincerely.” Leave at least three spaces and type your complete name exactly as it appears on the top of the letter. Sign the letter in the space between the closing and your typed name.
- 22. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc.
- 23. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Practical Tips for Writing Cover Letters Before you type the letter, know to whom it should be addressed. Make sure you have the individual's title correct and the spelling correct Mistakes are not acceptable. Poor spelling, punctuation, and grammar will reflect poorly on you Print a copy of your resume and proofread it. It often helps to print it, leave it for awhile, and then come back to it. Reread it with a fresh look. Ask a friend to proofread it. Make the corrections, save the document, and print a final copy. Look at the copy for smudge marks. Sign your name neatly. Use either a blue or black pen. Place the cover letter on top of the resume, and fold them neatly into thirds. Make the crease solid. Type the envelope. Handwritten envelopes do not communicate professionalism.
- 24. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Be prepared for phone calls Message on machine No loud music on the machine Pencil and paper by the phone Let housemates know that you are expecting important calls Return calls ASAP
- 25. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Tool Number 3—The Interview Congratulations, you have secured a job interview An interview is a two-way discussion between a potential employee and an employer This is your one chance to make a good and lasting impression on your prospective employer Preparation is key Many standard questions are asked during a job interview Be sure to emphasize your strengths and accomplishments. It is best to rehearse answering these questions in front of a mirror or by asking a friend to role-play an interview Try to keep your answers short and concise Avoid rambling. But, by the same token, avoid single word answers such as “yes” or “no.”
- 26. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Personal Questions Most interviewers start the interview by asking you personal questions. This helps them get to know you on a personal level. “Tell me something about you.” “How would you define success?” “What is your greatest accomplishment?” “How would you describe your personality?” “What are your long-/short-term goals?” “Are you happy with your career choice?”
- 27. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Personal Questions “What types of people do you work best with or worse with?” “Why did you choose this profession?” “How would fellow employees/students describe you?”
- 28. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Education Questions These questions address your educational experiences during your course work. If you have limited work experience, the answers that you give to these questions are crucial. You need to communicate that you have the knowledge and skills that this position requires “What do you know about the position?” “How do you stay informed professionally?” “I noticed you failed XYZ class. Tell me about that.” “What class was the hardest/easiest? Why?”
- 29. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Education Questions “Who was your favorite teacher? Why?” “Where did you do your clinical rotation or externship?” “Tell me about your evaluations from your clinical supervisors.”
- 30. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Experience Questions This is your opportunity to flaunt your strengths. Admit to weaknesses, but have a plan in place for improving them. “Describe your ideal boss.” “Worst boss.” “What were your duties? Did you dislike any of them?” “Tell me about your most challenging/rewarding patient.” “Do you like to work alone?” “Are you a team player?”
- 31. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Experience Questions “How often did you meet with your supervisor?” “How many pay raises did you receive at your last job?” Anticipate questions about the specialty for which you are applying
- 32. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Stress Management Questions Working as a medical professional is stressful. No matter whether you are working in a clinic, physician's office, or hospital, your job will be stressful. Certain positions and areas have a higher stress level than others. The interviewer must determine your ability to handle stressful situations. You must be able to communicate how well you handle stress. Types of stress that all medical professionals face are busy schedules, multitasking, and handling unpredictable situations “Are you able to multitask?” “Are you comfortable prioritizing patient care issues?” “Have you ever left a position because it was too stressful?” “How long do you think you will need for orientation?”
- 33. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Questions that cannot be asked Many questions legally cannot be asked during a job interview. Race Color National origin Religion or religious beliefs Sex Age Disability Marital status Political affiliation Sexual orientation Pregnancy There is an exception to this rule: A prospective employer may ask you any question if it is a bona fide occupational qualification If you are asked an illegal question, answer the question with a concise and direct answer
- 34. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Questions you should ask The interview should be a give-and-take situation. Just as the interviewer needs to determine whether you are suitable for the job, you need to know if this job will meet your needs. Take a few moments to think about what questions you want to ask and then write the questions on a piece of paper before arriving for the interview Do you anticipate any future lay-offs? How long has this position been open? What is the salary range for this position? What are the shift differentials? What are the benefits? Health insurance plans?
- 35. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Tips for Surviving an Interview There are many things you can do to make the interview a success. Here are 10 rules that you must follow to have a successful interview: 1.Be on time. 2.Be prepared. 3.Demonstrate confidence and maturity. 4.Pay attention to your posture. Sit straight. Walk with confidence. Do not shuffle. 5.Smile appropriately and always maintain eye contact. 6.Always provide a strong, solid handshake. 7.Learn as much about the job and facility as you can before the interview. 8.Keep the communication professional. 9.Maintain a conversational tone. 10.Pay attention to detail.
- 36. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Tool Number 4—Thank You Letter A thank-you letter serves many purposes. First and foremost, it keeps your name and resume in the mind of the prospective employer. Quite often there are more applicants for a position than there are openings. You want your name to be on the top of the list. Timeliness is important A thank-you letter should be sent promptly, within 1 to 2 business days Body of the letter Next slide
- 37. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. Body of the Thank You Letter The first paragraph should consist of two or three sentences It should start with a statement thanking the interviewer Following that statement, indicate the position for which you are being considered A brief sentence that you are excited about the position and are looking forward to joining the team should be third. In the second paragraph, reemphasize your strengths and what you can bring to the position Follow up or clarify any important issues If you promised to send a document, this is a good place to refer to the enclosure For example, “As promised, I am sending you a copy of my certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.” Two or three brief sentences are appropriate for your third paragraph The intent of this paragraph is to indicate interest and to anticipate hearing about the position State that you can be contacted for additional information if needed Use an appropriate closure term, such as “Sincerely,” or “Regards,” leave at least three spaces and then type your name. If you are including an enclosure, type “enc” underneath your typed name. If the enclosure is more than one page, put the number of pages being included in parenthesis. For example: enc (3). It is acceptable to write “enc” when sending just one page. Print the letter, sign it, place the letter and enclosures into a typed envelope and mail it
- 38. Copyright © 2006 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc.